England cricket’s future looks murky after Ben Stokes stepped down from his international career at the 3rd Test at Trent Bridge against New Zealand.
The 35-year-old admitted he had suffered from “burnout” following four challenging years as England’s Test captain, with the team looking for one who could replace him and his “match-winning all-round” qualities.
Stokes’ announcement came after an outstanding individual effort. He was given a standing ovation from the Nottingham audience and he dismissed a New Zealand batter on the exact next delivery.
However, Daryl Mitchell’s fighting century had set a tough challenge of 373 runs for England.
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Stokes also surprised everybody by promoting himself in the batting order. He chipped in 30 runs from 20 balls before being bowled out in what turned out to be his last international innings.
England’s batting was now in trouble at the pitch as they stood at 103-4 and faced a 2-1 series loss.
Some criticised the timing of Stokes’ retirement announcement and the fact that he opened the batting, but the all-rounder acknowledged that the demands of captaincy had become too much to bear.
He made the decision as a result of the hard times the England team experienced in Australia during the Ashes series and after facing facial surgery following an injury and a disciplinary matter at the start of the year.
While playing international cricket he felt his passion was gone now, but he intends to play county cricket for Durham.
Now England is in a big leadership crisis. The team looked weak without Stokes in the second Test, revealing their dependence on him.
Talent aside, Vice-captain Harry Brook has failed to impress many that he is good enough for the captain’s seat, particularly given recent disciplinary issues.
England is now left with the task of finding a man to replace one of the most influential modern-day cricketers, as there is no apparent heir to his mantle.
Also read: England Captain Ben Stokes announces shock retirement from international cricket
